Airborne LiDAR projects in Texas began in 2006 with funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Increasing demand and evolving research on the uses of LiDAR has made it one of the premier datasets for Texas. LiDAR goes beyond traditional bare earth digital elevation models (DEMs) by producing point cloud information that can be classified into existing features such as vegetation and man-made structures. A common format for saving point clouds (with parameters like x, y, return, intensity, elevation) is the LAS file format. Other deliverable products from LiDAR technology may include XYZ text files, Intensity Images, DEM bare ground elevations, Hydro-enforced breaklines and metadata.

The cost of LiDAR production makes it difficult to achieve coverage for the entire state. Priority is given to areas in Texas where the area is densely populated and prone to flooding or where partnership funding gives leverage. Contact TNRIS for more information on how to participate in obtaining LiDAR for your area.

These data were acquired by various entities, including CAPCOG, FEMA, City Of Grand Prairie, Hidalgo County Flood Control, IBWC, LCRA, TNRIS, USGS. Post spacing ranges from .5M to 1.8M.

For more information or to order LiDAR products and services, please contact us.

Note: Additional LiDAR is also available from Houston Galveston Area Council of Government.